July brings a refreshing wave of new stories from debut authors, ready to captivate readers with their unique narratives and unforgettable characters. This month’s selection features a diverse array of genres, from romance and mystery to historical fiction and fantasy. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or seeking a cozy escape from the heat, these debut books promise to transport you to different worlds and experiences. Here are the best debut books of July 2024 that you won’t want to miss.
Best Debut Books of July 2024
The Next Best Fling (Librarians in Love, #1): By Gabriella Game
“The Next Best Fling” by Gabriella Gamez is the first book in the “Librarians in Love” series, marking a charming debut in contemporary romance. The story revolves around Marcela Ortiz, a librarian who has harbored feelings for her best friend for years. However, when he gets engaged, Marcela decides it’s time to move on. Enter Theo Young, an ex-NFL player and older brother of Marcela’s best friend, who complicates her plans by drunkenly planning to confess his love to his brother’s fiancée at the engagement party.
Marcela intervenes, and the two find themselves in an unexpected situation where everyone assumes they have hooked up. They decide to play along with the misunderstanding to cover up their true feelings, leading to a fake dating scenario. This setup leads to various romantic and comedic moments, exploring themes of unrequited love, family dynamics, and self-discovery.
The novel features flirty banter, steamy scenes, and a deep exploration of the characters’ personal growth. It includes themes such as fake dating, best friend’s/ex’s brother trope, and Latinx representation, which add layers of cultural authenticity and emotional depth to the narrative.
Evenings and Weekends by Oisín McKenna
“Evenings and Weekends” by Oisín McKenna is a striking debut novel that captures the essence of life in London during a scorching summer weekend in 2019. The narrative revolves around a group of interconnected characters navigating the complexities of their relationships, aspirations, and personal struggles against a vibrant yet challenging urban backdrop.
The story predominantly follows Maggie, a 30-year-old pregnant artist, as she grapples with the impending move out of London with her fiancé Ed. Maggie’s best friend Phil and his mother Rosaleen also play central roles in the unfolding drama. The oppressive heatwave and the presence of a whale stuck in the Thames serve as symbolic elements, reflecting the characters’ own emotional turmoil and precarious situations.
McKenna’s novel explores themes of sexuality, shame, and miscommunication with a blend of humor and poignancy. The narrative delves into the lives of millennials dealing with political, emotional, and financial challenges while trying to build meaningful lives in a rapidly changing city. The character-driven plot is enriched by McKenna’s empathetic portrayal of their experiences, making it a compelling read for those interested in contemporary urban life and millennial struggles.
Lenny Marks Gets Away with Murder by Kerryn Mayne
“Lenny Marks Gets Away with Murder” by Kerryn Mayne is a captivating debut novel that deftly blends elements of suspense, humor, and heartfelt moments. The story revolves around Lenny Marks, a 37-year-old socially awkward primary school teacher with a love for “The Hobbit” and a rigid daily routine. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she receives a letter from the parole board, triggering a series of events that force her to confront her past.
Lenny’s character is meticulously crafted, showcasing her struggle with loneliness and her reliance on structured routines and coping mechanisms like watching “Friends” and playing mental word games. Despite her quirks, Lenny is a lovable protagonist whose journey of self-discovery and healing resonates deeply with readers.
The novel is more than just a mystery; it delves into themes of loss, grief, friendship, and self-acceptance. As Lenny attempts to make friends and navigate social situations, her life is disrupted by a series of mishaps, including a drunken trivia night and the theft of a dog, which serve as catalysts for significant personal growth and revelations about her past.
Broken Bayou by Jennifer Moorhead
“Broken Bayou” is the debut thriller by Jennifer Moorhead, set in the atmospheric Louisiana bayou. The story follows Dr. Willa Watters, a child psychologist whose career unravels after a disastrous television interview. Seeking refuge, Willa returns to Broken Bayou, where she spent her childhood summers. However, her plans for a quiet retreat are thwarted when she discovers troubling secrets in her family home and becomes entangled in a series of mysterious murders. As she navigates the dangers and confronts her past, Willa must rely on her wits to survive. The novel is noted for its suspenseful narrative and rich, evocative setting.
The Gilded Crown (The Raven’s Trade, #1) by Marianne Gordon
“The Gilded Crown,” the debut novel by Marianne Gordon, is a dark fantasy set in the fictional Nordic country of Chron. The story follows Hellevir, a young woman with the extraordinary ability to raise the dead, a power she discovers at the age of ten. This talent comes at a steep price, demanded by the mysterious figure who rules the afterlife.
The novel’s plot intensifies when Princess Sullivain, the sole heir to the throne, is assassinated. The Queen summons Hellevir to bring her granddaughter back to life. As the threat of future assassination attempts looms, Hellevir is commanded to stay by Sullivain’s side, forging a bond that becomes both a political necessity and a complex personal relationship. As Hellevir and Sullivain navigate the treacherous waters of court politics, their relationship deepens, bringing themes of loyalty, power, and forbidden love to the forefront.
The novel is praised for its richly imagined world, evocative of ancient fairy tales, and its exploration of complex themes such as religious hypocrisy and the cost of power. Reviewers highlight its combination of court intrigue, dark magic, and a sapphic romance, making it a compelling read for fans of gothic fairy tales and dark fantasy.
Also Read: TOP 10 MUST-READ HORROR NOVELS RELEASING IN LATE 2024 (SECOND HALF OF 2024)
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